European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT) and EU Crime Priorities 2026–2029
Introduction
The EU crime priorities for 2026–2029 mark a new era in the fight against serious and organised crime across Europe. On 13 June 2025, the Council of the European Union officially adopted a new set of priorities under the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT), a flagship security framework running in four-year cycles.
This article provides a clear and comprehensive overview of the new priorities, their structure, and what they mean for law enforcement, compliance officers, and EU businesses.
What is EMPACT?
EMPACT (European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats) is the EU’s key operational instrument to combat organised and serious international crime. Driven by Member States and supported by EU agencies such as Europol, CEPOL, and the European Commission, EMPACT follows a four-year operational cycle, coordinated through Operational Action Plans (OAPs).
The 2026–2029 EMPACT cycle is based on the 2025 EU Serious and Organised Crime Threat Assessment (EU SOCTA) and addresses the most pressing security threats identified across the EU.
The 7 EU Crime Priorities for 2026–2029
The Council has defined 7 strategic priority areas, each with specific sub-priorities and dedicated Operational Action Plans (OAPs):
1. Most Threatening Criminal Networks and Individuals
Focus: Disruption of top-tier criminal networks, money laundering, corruption, asset recovery, youth recruitment, and violence.
2. Fastest Growing Crimes in the Online Sphere
- 2.1 Cyber-attacks: Targeting critical infrastructure and government systems.
- 2.2 Online child sexual exploitation
- 2.3 Online fraud schemes: Large-scale scams against citizens and businesses.
3. Drug Trafficking
- 3.1 Cannabis, cocaine, and heroin trafficking
- 3.2 Synthetic drugs and new psychoactive substances
4. Migrant Smuggling & Trafficking in Human Beings
- 4.1 Smuggling networks across EU borders
- 4.2 Exploitation of minors and vulnerable persons
5. Firearms and Explosives Crime
Combatting illicit manufacture, modification, and trafficking of firearms and explosives.
6. Environmental Crime
Targeting illegal waste trafficking and green crimes impacting health and the economy.
7. Economic and Financial Crime
- 7.1 VAT fraud (incl. MTIC schemes)
- 7.2 Excise and customs fraud
- 7.3 IP crime, counterfeiting of goods and currencies
What Happens Next? EMPACT Implementation and OAPs
Each sub-priority will be addressed through targeted Operational Action Plans (OAPs). A total of 14 OAPs will be developed, implemented and evaluated between 2026 and 2029. These action plans are led by designated Member States (drivers and co-drivers), with support from Europol, CEPOL, and other EU bodies.
Why It Matters for AML Compliance and Internal Security
The 2026–2029 priorities are especially relevant for compliance professionals and financial institutions:
- Money laundering is now a cross-cutting issue under multiple crime priorities, particularly tied to criminal network disruption.
- Cyber-enabled fraud is rising rapidly and requires proactive detection and risk mitigation strategies.
- Asset recovery and financial investigation are becoming central pillars of the EU’s operational strategy.
Stay Updated: EU Policy Meets Practical Action
The EMPACT framework represents a growing alignment between EU-level policy, national enforcement efforts, and the private sector. Whether you’re a compliance officer, law enforcement partner, or legal professional, staying ahead of these priorities is essential for navigating regulatory and operational risks between now and 2029.
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